Opposition urges government to draft clear tourism strategy

The Opposition's spokesman for tourism Robert Arrigo has urged the government to come up with a clear strategy on tourism, insisting that without such a strategy several industries would be put at risk.

Arrigo said the Nationalist Party was ready to contribute in terms of policies and ideas in order to see the sector flourish.

"The Opposition is also studying its tourism policy, including Air Malta, to continue developing its ideas and proposals for the development of the sector," the MP said in a statement.

According to Arrigo, many tourism stakeholders were asking about the government's plan in attracting new markets and whether there will be investment in new routes to Malta.

"What projects and initiatives will be developed in order to improve our tourism product? And what is the Labour government doing to attract cruise liners companies now that their contract terminated?" Arrigo said.

Referring to two reports published by the National Statistics Office and the Malta Tourism Authority highlighting how tourism grew in the past years, Arrigo said the PN was diligent in continue developing the sector as one of the economic pillars. He said the previous administration invested in tourism product, infrastructure and advertising.

"The Labour government however cannot think that results will be achieved on their own. We urged the government to draft a clear strategy to continue improving the country's core markets and target new one. The Tourism Minister must explain what are his visions and strategies and not simply base himself on those adopted by the previous administration," Arrigo said.